20.1. 2017, Molekulární neurobiologie

PhD project:     

Collapsin response mediator proteins in neurodevelopmental disorders

Precise regulation of neural development is essential for normal function of the adult nervous system. Defects in neuron migration, branching or growth have been linked to several neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, schizophrenia or epilepsy. Molecular cascades that control these processes, though, remain largely elusive. The PhD project, aims to characterize the role of collapsing response mediator protein family in neural development and how deregulation of its members contributes to onset of neurodevelopmental disorders. To achieve this goal, new mouse transgenic and knockout models will be generated and analyzed using biochemical, histological and microscopy techniques.

Candidate’s profile (requirements):

We are seeking outstanding self-motivated candidates with master's degree or equivalent in molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology, medicine or related fields, or those expecting to obtain their degree this year. Candidates should be fluent in English. Experience with in vivo models (mouse, rat) as well as with in vitro cell cultures and molecular biology techniques are advantage.

Relevant publications:

Balastik M, et al., Prolyl Isomerase Pin1 Regulates Axon Guidance by Stabilizing CRMP2A Selectively in Distal Axons. Cell Rep. 2015 Oct 27;13(4):812-28.

Lim J, Balastik M, et al. Pin1 has opposite effects on wild-type and P301L tau stability and tauopathy. J Clin Invest. 118(5):1877-89

Pastorino L, Sun A, Lu PJ, Zhou XZ, Balastik M,  et al. The prolyl isomerase Pin1 regulates amyloid precursor protein processing and amyloid beta production. Nature. 2006 440(7083):528-34

Supervisor:        Martin Balastik, Ph.D.